12: Above: bird-watching at the reserve lodge Left: Julie has a new friend in the butterfly garden

13: Canopy Crew Chris, Sarah, Julie, Russell, Matt, Doracy, Nick

15: Swinging through the treetops!

17: A lunch stop turned into a memorable afternoon when a couple guys from a neighboring town tried to snatch Laurel's wallet. But they didn't expect Marco and Jose to be so quick to react! After a foot chase through the park and pursuit by taxi, the thief was thwarted when his cab driver made a stop at... the local police station. | the heroes of the day

21: This orchid only blooms for one day each year! | Family portrait on the lava rock

22: Observatory Lodge- rooms with a view! | An amazing view in the day and even more spectacular at night, watching the red lava flow. The lodge is located 1.6 miles south of Arenal, one of the world's most active volcanoes. | a warm welcome

23: We lucked out with weather for the "off-season," especially at Arenal, with clear skies during the day, almost no rain, and perfect temperatures. One evening the clouds created a particularly striking sunset. Though some may argue an earthquake by a volcano isn't lucky weather, it was definitely unique and (hopefully) once-in-a-lifetime!

24: Rafting Rio Sarapiqui

26: The Young'uns : Matt & Russell up front, Sarah & Doracy in the middle, Julie in the ejector seat

27: The Hills: Ellen & Nick in front, Alex & Chris in back

28: Vinnie with her trusty crew: Judy, Dick, Ann, & Stan

29: a light-hearted game of football | relaxing in the pool back at the resort